Technology offers incredible opportunities for learning and entertainment. Internet access and television programming can enrich our lives by delivering information about the world we live in. Glimpses of various cultures and lifestyles are literally at our fingertips through our computers, tablets, and mobile devices.

However, for all we obtain from the Internet and television, there are some dark and dangerous off-ramps, especially for children. Without proper supervision, children can easily be exposed to inappropriate material and messages, be exploited by sexual predators, and become victims to deceitful con artists. We want to help keep children safe.

Hundreds of technological hardware and software tools are available to help empower families to choose what material is appropriate for their children. These tools are specifically designed to promote child safety. With some programs, parents have the option of customizing the filtering device so that it reflects their family’s values.

However, parents need to be aware that blocking and filtering tools should not be used as substitutes for instituting Internet ground rules. Remember, even the best technology cannot protect your child from all the dangers in cyberspace.

With thousands of hours of programming available in our homes each day, it’s getting very hard for parents to monitor what their children are watching on TV.

TV ratings and the V-Chip can help parents navigate their children’s way through the vast world of television. TV ratings can help parents figure out which programs are inappropriate for certain ages or unsuitable because of sex, violence, or adult language. The V-Chip can help parents “screen out” the programs they don’t want their children to watch. The V-Chip is already built into new TV sets--parents who want to use it just have to turn it on when they set up their new TV.

There’s a lot of help out there for parents who want to protect their children from harmful information. Contact your local cable company for other ways to block out inappropriate programming. Also, check your local television listings and watch for these symbols at the beginning of programs: